A Silence on the Farm

 

Our most recent family photo

There has been silence here on our page for the past three weeks. I am not sure I am ready to resume my posts, but I wish to give our supporters some words, brief they may be.

The night of January 22nd, we suffered an unexpected loss. Our eighteen year old son, Ethan, was gone in a moment. He was a senior at Wheelersburg High School, our star soccer player, and the fun loving, motivational spirit of the family. He was that teenager everyone met and loved instantly. 

Ethan's senior pictures

Since that time, our farm has taken a backseat. Life has taken a backseat, really.

There are days the basics seem too much to accomplish. I'm thankful for Jim, my husband, who has managed to maintain the strength and motivation to do when I cannot. The various farm projects that seemed so pressing have ceased having importance, and only the bare necessities have been accomplished through these past weeks. 

As farmers, we are all too familiar with losses. Raising livestock, we've had plenty. Though it sets you back, you move on. After awhile, one tends to become accustomed to loss.

But this. 

Senior soccer pictures

Well, I can tell you nothing can compare to the death of your own child. 
As full of life as he was.

It is the most profound and unimaginable experience. We know this is only the beginning of gasping what this loss means and will mean for years to come. 

As we forge through the path of grief to continue on, our faith will keep us. 

“The Lord is close to the broken-hearted; he rescues those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18